Maku: A New Zealand “Gravel Bike” Adventure

compose Logan Watts
time Aug 17, 2020
comment 6

Back in November, Damian Stones and Mike Anderson pedaled across the top of New Zealand’s South Island looking to push the capabilities of their gravel bikes on the Marlborough Sounds’ challenging tracks and trails. The weather forecast was less than ideal but due to time restrictions they decided to commit to this journey with the idea that no matter how challenging, “it can’t be that bad.” This film was aptly named Mākū—the Maori word for “wet, moist, damp, and soggy”—due to the land being traversed and the adverse weather these riders faced during this four-day adventure.

“Would you do that again? Probably not, but it was good character building. There’s a sense of accomplishment.”

Film by Damian Stones (@damianstones) with thanks to Shimano and providers of accommodation: the Villa Backpackers Lodge (Picton) and Mistletoe Bay Eco Lodge, and to Cougar Line for transport. For more from Damian, be sure to check out the Waiau-Toa Odyssey and the West Coast Wilderness Trail.